In a groundbreaking moment for college athletics and representation in sports, NiJaree Canady, a 22-year-old African American softball powerhouse, has become the first player in college softball history—and the first Black woman in the sport—to land a $1 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal.
The trailblazing deal follows her transfer from Stanford University to Texas Tech, where she signed a one-year $1,050,024 contract with the Matador Club, a collective tied to the university. The historic package includes $1 million in direct payment, $50,000 for living expenses, and an extra $24 to match the number on her jersey—a thoughtful detail that adds a personal touch to a monumental milestone.
Canady, who was recently named the USA Softball National Player of the Year, entered the transfer portal just days before Texas Tech brought in Coach Gerry Glasco. Recognizing her once-in-a-generation talent, Glasco moved fast to secure her, aided in part by NFL superstar and Texas Tech alumnus Patrick Mahomes.
While the million-dollar deal grabbed headlines, Canady made it clear that money wasn’t her only motivation. What truly drew her to Lubbock was a coaching philosophy that saw her as more than just a pitcher—it saw her potential as a full-fledged two-way player.
“I loved that Coach Glasco cared about developing me as a hitter too,” Canady said. “A lot of other programs didn’t make that a priority. This place just felt like home.”
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Despite a minor injury early in the season, Canady had a remarkable year—leading the Red Raiders to their first-ever Big 12 regular-season and conference titles with a stunning 26-5 record and the nation’s best ERA at 0.86.
Her dominance was on full display in the Women’s College World Series, where she pitched a 2-hit shutout with 10 strikeouts, securing Texas Tech’s first win ever in the tournament.
Coach Glasco didn’t mince words about her impact:
“NiJaree is the best pitcher I’ve ever coached,” he said. “She’s not just changing our season—she’s changing the future of this program.”
Breaking Barriers Off the Field
Born in Topeka, Kansas, Canady has always been more than an athlete. A multisport standout in high school, she played softball, basketball, and even tackle football—proving her grit and versatility from an early age.
Now, with history on her shoulders and a million-dollar contract in hand, she’s thinking about the young Black girls watching her rise.
“I want to be someone they can look at and say, ‘If she can do it, so can I.’ I love signing autographs, but more than that, I want to help little girls learn to hit, to pitch, to dream big.”
Canady’s record NIL deal is more than a financial milestone. It’s a signal that Black women in collegiate sports are stepping into the spotlight on their own terms—and being recognized not just for their talent, but for their full value.
Her story is one of athletic brilliance, personal conviction, and cultural significance. And as she continues to shatter ceilings on and off the field, one thing is clear: NiJaree Canady isn’t just playing softball—she’s rewriting history.
